Wits graduate named finalist for the McCall MacBain Scholarships in Canada
- Wits University
A BSc in Physics and an honours degree in Computational and Applied Mathematics graduate will travel to Montreal to compete for a fully funded scholarship.
The McCall MacBain Scholarships, established in 2019 through a landmark C$200-million (ZAR 2.6 billion) donation, are Canada’s largest leadership-based scholarships for master’s and professional studies. The programme provides full tuition and fees, a C$2,300 monthly living stipend, mentorship, coaching, a leadership curriculum, and access to the McCall MacBain House in Montreal. Scholars also receive summer funding options and a relocation grant.
Claver Kwenzongo is among 36 international finalists selected from thousands of applicants globally. The selection process involves a university nomination and assesses candidates on their character, community engagement, leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, academic strength, and intellectual curiosity.
Currently working as a junior financial engineer at a boutique consultancy, Kwenzongo specialises in financial and quantitative modelling. In addition to his professional work, he revived the community service committee at his firm and recently tutored Grade 8 students from disadvantaged communities in mathematics.
His academic journey began at Wits, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Physics and an Honours degree in Computational and Applied Mathematics. While at university, he was a volunteer ambassador and led tutoring sessions for first-year students. Having received a full-tuition Moshal Scholarship, Kwenzongo gave back by mentoring new students and organising a fundraising drive. Originally from Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), he moved to South Africa to pursue his studies.
Kwenzongo is applying for master's programmes in mathematics, with aspirations to work in education.
“We need more leaders who act with integrity, kindness, curiosity, and courage,” said Dr Marcy McCall MacBain, Chair of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill. “We congratulate these students who have already distinguished themselves as top candidates nationally and globally, and we thank the universities that nominated them for this opportunity.”
During his visit to Canada, Kwenzongo will take part in interviews with leaders from academia, business, government, and the social sector. Up to 30 McCall MacBain Scholars will be selected after final interviews. Candidates who are not chosen for the full scholarship remain eligible for a C$20,000 award towards a master’s degree at McGill.
“We are grateful to the more than 300 senior leaders who contribute their time to the decision-making process,” said Natasha Sawh, CEO of the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill. “The interview process allows students to reflect on their experiences and motivations, and we hope each one comes away from the process with a better understanding of their capacity to lead and to strengthen communities.”
Applications for the 2026 cohort will open in June 2025. More information about the McCall MacBain Scholarships is available at mccallmacbainscholars.org.